Butylated Hydroxyanisole (BHA)

Both
Inside: Harmless
Outside: Harmless

Key Information

Inside Body Harmful Score

Harmless

Outside Body Harmful Score

Harmless

Common Dosage

Dosage varies widely depending on application. In food, typical usage levels are very low, often expressed as parts per million (ppm). For supplements, if present, dosage is generally limited by regulatory restrictions.

Source Type

synthetic

Production Process

BHA is synthesized industrially by reacting p-cresol with butanol, often using sulfuric acid as a catalyst. The reaction yields a mixture of isomers, primarily 3-BHA and 2-BHA.

Use Type

Both

Potential Benefits

Antioxidants neutralize harmful free radicals, preventing cellular damage and reducing oxidative stress, which can contribute to overall health and disease prevention. They work by donating electrons to stabilize free radicals and supporting antioxidant enzyme systems.

3/5

Possible Side Effects

Carcinogenicity

BHA is classified as possibly carcinogenic to humans based on animal studies showing forestomach tumors in rodents at high doses. Human studies are inconclusive and the relevance at typical exposure levels is debated.

high

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